The Indiana Pacers finished 38-44 last season and missed the playoffs because they lost the season series versus the Brooklyn Nets. And luckily for the Atlanta Hawks they had to face Brooklyn instead, or they might've been bounced in the first round. This year, Indiana should have no problem returning to postseason form.

Key Loss:David West (signed with Spurs)Roy Hibbert (traded to the Lakers)

X-Factor:Paul George and his health

The Indiana Pacers have a phenomenal team and have a lot of depth on their bench, even after losing Roy Hibbert and David West. Their lineup consists of 2, if not 3, guys who could score 15-25 PPG (Paul George, Monta Ellis, and George Hill), as well as a serviceable big men in Jordan Hill.

The Indiana bench has been better, but it's still a very good one. With a guy like Rodney Stuckey, Indiana has a good scoring option coming off of the bench. Stuckey also is a pretty good passer and defender. Ian Mahimni burst onto the scene last year and showed that he is a very good backup center in the NBA, I expect him to build off last year and be an even more valuable piece to the Pacers' squad.

The Pacers, however, failed to bring back David West, as he went to San Antonio. In doing so, that puts rookie Myles Turner into the starting lineup alongside Jordan Hill. That may not be too big of a deal, but any time a rookie is thrust into the starting lineup, it raises eyebrows, as well as a lot of questions.

Roy Hibbert was dealt to Los Angeles for Jordan Hill this offseason, which is a move that works out for both teams in a way. Hibbert is arguably one of the best centers during the regular season, only to fall apart in the playoffs. Hill is a guy who hasn't had much of an opportunity to perform to the best of his abilities, and he hasn't had much playoff experience, but I believe Hill will be a very good player this year.

Lastly, Paul George. George missed the majority of last season after suffering a gruesome leg injury in a Team USA scrimmage during the summer. When he returned, he was back and forth with his production, mustering up 8.4 PPG in his time spent on the floor. But we've seen PG play and I doubt that this injury is going to hold George back much longer. He might be a little shaky the first few games, but after that, he should be back to his usual, superstar form.

Indiana will regain their form they were in back in 2013-14 season. I see them finishing in 3rd in the East with 50+ wins.